In September of 2008, we started a new ministry at TrinityBaptistChurch--G4. Many have asked me what G4 stands for. In Luke 2:52, we see that when Jesus was in his teenage years, he grew in four different areas. The Bible says He grew in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man. If Jesus grew like this, then we can use that as the model for our lives. Are we growing socially, mentally, physically, and most importantly, spiritually?
So how do we grow in these ways? G4 is set up to give our middle-school teens an opportunity to succeed in this area. Here’s how we do it.
1. Physically – It’s no secret that we have some pretty crazy activities. Whether we are running through a corn maze, bowling, or having a Gym Blast, we want to encourage our teens to use the physical gifts they have been given by God. Activities are designed to not only have fun, but also to create an environment that they can invite their unsaved friends to.
2. Socially – Part of the teenage years is beginning to understand what it means to interact socially. We frequently encourage our teens to get outside their comfort zones and meet new people, share their faith with others, and foster new friendships. Each time we’re together, we provide a way to grow socially.
3. Mentally – There are a number of ways we encourage mental growth. The first is our scripture memory program. Each week our teens are working toward a special activity at the end of the year by memorizing verses and taking a test over what they've memorized. I also look for growth in this way through the preaching of God’s word. The Bible says we must seek after wisdom like hidden treasure. Not only do I seek to see heart change, but my desire is that our teens are growing in their knowledge of God and who He is.
4. Spiritually – Although we seek to see a balanced growth in all these areas, we place a very high emphasis on seeing spiritual growth. We can grow physically, socially, and mentally, but if we don’t grow in our devotion to the Lord, we are living a life that is displeasing to God. I truly believe that the preaching of God’s Word will not return void. It is my desire to faithfully and accurately teach the teens of G4 what the Bible says concerning their lives and walk with God.
That’s G4--growth in four different ways. Please join me in praying that these blossoming teens would see balanced growth in their lives mirroring the life of our Savior, Jesus Christ. ~ Nate Beaman, Children’s Pastor
